Self-assembled, monodispersed, flower-like gamma-AlOOH hierarchical superstructures for efficient and fast removal of heavy metal ions from water

Self-assembled, monodispersed, uniform, and flower-like gamma-AlOOH hierarchical superstructures have been synthesized in high yield via a simple, economical and environmentally friendly, hydrothermal route. The product possesses a large BET surface area of 145.5 m(2) g(-1). It is found that Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions can be quickly removed from aqueous solutions by the flower-like gamma-AlOOH. After only 5 min, the removal rate for Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions is over 99.0%. The maximal adsorption is ca. 124.22 mg g(-1) for Pb(II) and 131.23 mg g(-1) for Hg(II).